Compact Comfort: The Japanese Tub

Do you love nothing more than a good, long soak in a tub full of steaming water? There are not many simple pleasures in life more relaxing than a bath. Unfortunately, due to downsizing, space constraints, and the new trend of eliminating the bathtub from master bathrooms, many homes are left without a tub.

If you think your bathroom is too small to accommodate a tub, think again! A Japanese tub may be the solution to your bath conundrum.

What is a Japanese soaking tub? (And what is an ofuro tub?)

A Japanese soaking tub, also known as an ofuro tub or an Asian tub, is deep and compact, allowing one to immerse fully without taking up much floor space. They often feature a bench or seat inside for comfortable soaks.

The Japanese tub is Zen-inducing and stylish with a small footprint for installation in bathrooms lacking the space for a full-sized tub. And while it’s typically a soaker tub, Japanese tubs are also available in jetted configurations (so stop debating Japanese soaking tub vs hot tub – you really can have it all!).

What are Japanese soaking tubs made of?

These versatile tubs are available in numerous materials and finishes to match any bathroom’s decor and may be installed freestanding, deck-mounted, floor-mounted, or recessed. You can purchase a Japanese tub made of materials as typical as acrylic, as luxurious as copper, or in an unexpected stainless steel or concrete for visual impact.

For a more authentic Asian flavor, choose a wooden Japanese soaking tub, which has the added advantage of releasing a woodsy scent – depending on the type of wood – as you bathe.

Does an ofuro tub offer health benefits?

While every soak in the bath provides deep relaxation and stress relief (as well as improved circulation, lower blood pressure, and muscle-pain relief), Japanese tubs provide additional benefits. Thanks to its unique shape, an ofuro tub gives bathers the ability to sit upright for improved posture and congestion relief (especially if it’s made of an aromatherapy-releasing wood); plus, the depth of the tub keeps the water warmer for longer, prolonging the feel-good factor.

How big is a Japanese soaking tub?

Japanese soaking tub dimensions vary from model to model, but they are typically at least 27” deep to allow bathers to immerse completely while seated. The tubs – which are usually square or round, occasionally rectangular or oval – are typically no more than 4.5’ in diameter; most are smaller.

Technical considerations for a Japanese bath

Because most Japanese tubs are, by definition, compact, they generally do not require additional reinforcement in the floor; however, a larger or heavier tub may need a stronger floor.

Some users report excessive splashing with Japanese tubs. To avoid spillover, consider a tub with an overflow drain or climb in before the tub is full.

One downside to these tubs is that their proportions can make it difficult to maneuver in and out of, necessitating the installation of steps and extra care when getting out of the tub. Two possible solutions: install steps or recess the tub into the floor!